Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX4173FESA+
- Part No.:
- MAX4173FESA+
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Category:
- Instrumentation, Op Amps, Buffer Amps
- Package:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
MAX4173FESA+.pdf
- Description:
- IC CURRENT SENSE 1 CIRCUIT 8SOIC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:4,403
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Product details
Overview
MAX4173FESA+ from Maxim Integrated is a precision high-side current-sense amplifier with fixed 50V/V gain, 0V to +28V input common-mode range independent of supply voltage, ±0.5% full-scale accuracy, 1.4MHz bandwidth, and 420µA supply current. It operates from a single +3V to +28V supply over –40°C to +85°C and is housed in an 8-pin SO package - ideal for battery charger control loops and smart battery pack monitoring.
For engineers reviewing the MAX4173FESA+ datasheet, MAX4173FESA+ pinout, MAX4173FESA+ application, or MAX4173FESA+ equivalent, this page delivers verified technical context, real-world design meaning for key specs, validated pin functions, application-specific implementation value, and two confirmed alternative parts with documented functional and application-level differences.
Technical Context
The MAX4173FESA+ implements a high-impedance current-mirror-based sensing architecture that enables accurate high-side current measurement without ground-path disruption. Its input common-mode range extends down to 0V - ensuring viability during deep battery discharge - and remains fully independent of VCC.
It delivers a voltage output proportional to sensed current (VOUT = 50 × (VRS+ − VRS−)), eliminating external gain-setting resistors. The 1.4MHz bandwidth supports dynamic response inside battery charger feedback loops, while its 12kΩ output impedance requires high-impedance A/D or buffered interfacing to preserve gain accuracy.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Gain | 50V/V - sets full-scale output to 5V for 100mV sense voltage; eliminates need for external gain resistors |
| Common-Mode Input Range | 0V to +28V - enables monitoring of deeply discharged batteries and high-voltage rails exceeding VCC |
| Full-Scale Accuracy | ±0.5% - ensures precise current reporting across temperature and supply voltage variations |
| Bandwidth | 1.4MHz - supports fast transient response in battery charger control loop applications |
| Supply Current | 420µA - enables low-power operation in always-on battery monitoring circuits |
| Input Offset Voltage | ±3mV (typ) - contributes ≤3% error at 100mV full-scale sense voltage |
| Output Impedance | 12kΩ - mandates high-Z load or buffer to avoid gain reduction from loading effects |
Pinout & Package
The MAX4173FESA+ is packaged in an 8-pin SO (Small Outline) surface-mount package with standard 1.27mm pitch and RoHS-compliant lead finish.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 RS− | Current-sense resistor low-side terminal | Connects to load side of external sense resistor; forms differential input with RS+ |
| 2 N.C. | No internal connection | Not bonded; must remain unconnected on PCB |
| 3 OUT | Voltage output terminal | Delivers 50×(VRS+ − VRS−); 12kΩ output impedance requires high-Z or buffered load |
| 4 RS+ | Current-sense resistor high-side terminal | Connects to power source side of sense resistor; supports 0V–28V common-mode range |
| 5 N.C. | No internal connection | Not bonded; must remain unconnected on PCB |
| 6 N.C. | No internal connection | Not bonded; must remain unconnected on PCB |
| 7 GND | Analog ground reference | Return path for internal circuitry; must be tied to system analog ground |
| 8 VCC | Positive supply input | Accepts +3V to +28V; bypass with 0.1µF capacitor to GND per layout guidelines |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Fixed 50V/V gain | Eliminates external gain-setting components and associated layout sensitivity or drift |
| 0V to +28V common-mode range | Enables uninterrupted current monitoring during battery deep-discharge states and high-voltage rail sensing |
| ±0.5% full-scale accuracy | Reduces calibration burden in portable systems requiring tight current budgeting and state-of-charge estimation |
| 1.4MHz bandwidth | Supports closed-loop stability in switching battery chargers with fast current regulation requirements |
| 420µA quiescent current | Minimizes parasitic drain in always-on battery fuel-gauge or protection circuits |
Applications
| Notebook Battery Monitoring | Smart Charger Control Loop |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Real-time battery discharge/charge current tracking in ultrabooks with dual-cell Li-ion packs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-side current-sense amplifier providing isolated analog output proportional to load current. Use Value: Enables accurate coulomb counting and state-of-charge estimation without disrupting battery ground return path. | Use Scenario: Feedback element in constant-current phase of USB-PD or proprietary fast-charging ICs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-bandwidth current sensor feeding error amplifier in charger control loop. Use Value: 1.4MHz bandwidth ensures loop stability and fast transient response during load steps or adapter voltage changes. |
| Portable Medical Device Power Management | PA Bias Current Regulation |
Use Scenario: Monitoring therapeutic current draw in handheld ultrasound or infusion pumps powered by removable Li-ion batteries. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Precision high-side current monitor interfaced to microcontroller ADC. Use Value: ±0.5% full-scale accuracy supports regulatory compliance for power consumption logging and fault detection thresholds. | Use Scenario: Stabilizing bias current in RF power amplifiers used in portable radios or IoT gateways. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-side current sensor driving DAC-controlled bias voltage generator. Use Value: 0V–28V common-mode range allows direct sensing on PA supply rail even when VCC is lower than battery voltage. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar high-side current-sense amplifier applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAX4080FASA+ | 50V/V gain, 1.5MHz bandwidth, 2.7V–76V supply, 0.5µA quiescent current, 8-pin SO | Wider supply range and lower IQ suit industrial 24V/48V systems; lacks guaranteed 0V common-mode operation | Select for higher-supply or ultra-low-power applications where deep-discharge monitoring is not required |
| INA240A1DR | 20V/V gain, 4MHz bandwidth, –5V to 80V common-mode, 2.4mA IQ, 8-pin SOIC | Higher bandwidth and extended negative common-mode support bidirectional sensing; higher IQ limits battery use | Select for bidirectional current sensing or high-speed motor control where 0V–28V unidirectional range is insufficient |
Compared with MAX4173FESA+, MAX4080FASA+ offers wider supply tolerance and lower quiescent current but does not guarantee operation at 0V common-mode, while INA240A1DR supports bidirectional sensing and higher bandwidth at the cost of increased supply current - making MAX4173FESA+ optimal for cost-sensitive, battery-centric unidirectional monitoring with deep-discharge capability.
Availability
MAX4173FESA+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for notebook computers, smart battery chargers, and portable medical devices requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant sourcing.
Supply support for MAX4173FESA+ includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.
Manufacturer
Maxim Integrated is a U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in analog and mixed-signal ICs for power, sensing, and communication applications.
The MAX4173 family was designed specifically for compact, low-cost, high-accuracy high-side current sensing in battery-powered portable electronics - emphasizing zero-ground-interference operation and minimal external component count.
FAQ
What is the gain of MAX4173FESA+ and how is it implemented?
The MAX4173FESA+ has a fixed gain of 50V/V, achieved via internal laser-trimmed resistor ratios and current-mirror topology. This eliminates external gain-setting components and ensures stable, temperature-invariant amplification. Unlike programmable variants, the 'F' suffix denotes factory-set 50V/V gain - confirmed in the Electrical Characteristics table and Functional Diagram of the MAX4173 datasheet. The gain directly scales the differential sense voltage (VRS+ − VRS−) to produce VOUT = 50 × (VRS+ − VRS−), enabling direct interface to standard 0–5V ADC inputs.
Does MAX4173FESA+ support operation at 0V common-mode voltage?
Yes, MAX4173FESA+ guarantees operation from 0V to +28V common-mode input range, independent of supply voltage - explicitly stated in both the General Description and Absolute Maximum Ratings sections. This allows reliable current sensing even when the battery voltage drops below 1V, a critical feature for deep-discharge monitoring in notebook and portable systems. The device maintains specified accuracy down to 0V, unlike many competitors that degrade or cease operation below ~2V.
What package type and pin count does MAX4173FESA+ use?
MAX4173FESA+ uses an 8-pin SO (Small Outline) package with standard 1.27mm lead pitch and RoHS-compliant finish. Pin configuration is fully documented in the "Pin Configurations" section of the datasheet: pins 1 (RS−), 3 (OUT), 4 (RS+), 7 (GND), and 8 (VCC) are functional; pins 2, 5, and 6 are no-connect. This matches the "8 SO" entry under Ordering Information for MAX4173FESA+, confirming mechanical and thermal compatibility with industry-standard SOIC-8 footprints.
Can MAX4173FESA+ be used in bidirectional current sensing applications?
No, MAX4173FESA+ is designed exclusively for unidirectional high-side current sensing. Its architecture and specifications - including 0V to +28V common-mode range and single-supply operation - assume current flow from RS+ to RS− only. It does not support negative differential input voltages or reverse current detection. For bidirectional applications, alternatives like the INA240A1DR (with –5V to +80V common-mode range) are required. The MAX4173FESA+ datasheet contains no specifications or test conditions for reverse-sense operation.
What is the maximum supply voltage and operating temperature range for MAX4173FESA+?
MAX4173FESA+ operates from a single supply of +3V to +28V and is rated for continuous operation across –40°C to +85°C ambient temperature. These values are guaranteed per the Absolute Maximum Ratings and Operating Temperature Range tables. The device draws only 420µA typical supply current across this full range, and its electrical characteristics - including gain accuracy and offset voltage - are specified over the entire –40°C to +85°C interval, making it suitable for automotive cabin and industrial portable equipment environments.
MAX4173FESA+ Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Amplifier Type:
- Current Sense
- Number of Circuits:
- 1
- Output Type:
- -
- Slew Rate:
- -
- Gain Bandwidth Product:
- -
- -3db Bandwidth:
- 1.4 MHz
- Current - Input Bias:
- 700 µA
- Voltage - Input Offset:
- 300 µV
- Current - Supply:
- 420µA
- Current - Output / Channel:
- -
- Voltage - Supply Span (Min):
- 3 V
- Voltage - Supply Span (Max):
- 28 V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-SOIC
MAX4173FESA+ FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX4173FESA+ through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX4173FESA+ on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for MAX4173FESA+ reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX4173FESA+ are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX4173FESA+ is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX4173FESA+?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX4173FESA+ transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX4173FESA+?
MAX4173FESA+ orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX4173FESA+ order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for MAX4173FESA+?
For technical support, including MAX4173FESA+ datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX4173FESA+ requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX4173FESA+ is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX4173FESA+ products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that MAX4173FESA+ meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX4173FESA+?
All MAX4173FESA+ units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX4173FESA+, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The MAX4173FESA+ part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX4173FESA+:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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